GS: What is your research? BB: My research focuses on the intercellular networks of cytokine signaling in astrocytes and microglia as well as the transcriptional regulation of these cytokines.

GS: What made you choose UAB for your graduate studies?BB: I felt that biomedical research at UAB, especially basic science research, was very strong and I welcomed the opportunity to be a part of a highly interactive and collaborative group of scientists.

GS: Have you received any awards or honors?BB: I was selected as the student representative for UAB’s Graduate School to attend the Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning (CIRTL) meeting in Madison, WI. This meeting addressed how well graduate schools prepared their Ph.D. students for faculty careers inside and outside academia.

GS: What has been your most rewarding experience at UAB?BB: Subsequent to the CIRTL meeting, I organized a seminar to provide biomedical graduate students with helpful resources and information about potential career opportunities for Ph.D.s. It felt rewarding to pass on information from the meeting and to hopefully aid students in making informed decisions about their future career choices.

GS: Who was your greatest influence here at UAB and why?BB: I would have to say my mentor, Dr. Tika Benveniste. She has equipped me with all the necessary tools to be a successful scientist, writer and editor, and has taught me to be a thorough and meticulous researcher.

GS: What is your motivation in your academics/research?BB: Right now, to graduate. In the future, I hope to contribute to a body of knowledge that may improve therapies for neuroimmunologic diseases.

GS: Do you have any advice/wisdom for other graduate students?BB: Your data are puzzle pieces. Keep track of them so you can construct the bigger picture.

GS: What are your plans after graduating and for the future?BB: I plan to take a postdoctoral position in industry and to continue developing my scientific and technical writing skills.

Student Spotlight

Jay BhattJay's research focuses on the various molecular machineries involved in forming transport vesicles at the Golgi.

Haley D. JohnsonHaley's research is focused on the transportation needs and safety issues of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Ethics for Authors

The UAB Ethics for Authors website explores ethical issues for students, researchers and faculty writing for publication. The site includes FAQs on citing and writing for research, e-tools and activities, and several handouts.